Australian Parents and Religious Sect Members Guilty of Manslaughter in Child's Death

AUAustralia|

The parents of eight-year-old Elizabeth Rose Struhs and 12 other members of their religious sect have been found guilty of her manslaughter after they withheld necessary medical treatment. Elizabeth passed away on January 7, 2022, in Toowoomba, Queensland, following six days without insulin, essential for managing her type 1 diabetes.

According to the trial proceedings, the group, which has been labeled a cult by some, intentionally denied Elizabeth her medication, believing divine intervention would save her. Those convicted include Elizabeth's father, Jason Struhs, 53, her mother, Kerrie Elizabeth Struhs, 49, and sect leader, Brendan Luke Stevens, 63. Initially charged with murder, the defendants were found guilty of manslaughter due to a lack of evidence proving reckless indifference to life, as stated by Queensland Supreme Court Judge Martin Burns.

Elizabeth’s sister, Jayde Struths, criticized the system for failing to protect her sibling, emphasizing that more action should have been taken to ensure her safety. All 14 defendants have been remanded in custody pending sentencing on February 11, 2025, and could face life in prison.

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